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England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his world title

This situation arises after the champion notified the WBO he would avoid a required championship defense against Wardley

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Organization head the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

The champion captured the world title in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the division
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt paves the way for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many